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Cadence Cycling President Stepping Down

Published April 15, 2009

NEW YORK, NY (BRAIN)—Cadence Cycling & Multisport Centers co-founder and president Matt Heitmann will be stepping down in order to pursue a new position heading up an effort to build a world-class, 250-meter indoor velodrome and community events center in Manhattan.

Heitmann, along with partner and co-founder Jay Snider, began plans for Cadence Cycling & Multisport Centers in 2003. Construction on the first Cadence began in October, 2003, and the first location opened to much acclaim in Philadelphia in April, 2004.

Since that time Cadence has built a potent brand and is a recognized industry leader for retail sales and coaching programs. Cadence was the first world-class facility of its kind offering a combination of high-quality product in conjunction with indoor training facilities, cutting-edge physiological testing, and the nation's leading coaches.

Cadence opened its second center in Manhattan (TriBeCa) in July, 2007. In 2008, the Manhattan location was selected by the International Interior Design Association's Lester Dundes' Award for retail interior design in New York City.

From its inception, Heitmann oversaw all operations for Cadence and was instrumental in building the Cadence brand and culture. In 2003, Heitmann approached Brian Walton, an Olympic silver medalist and 2003 USA Cycling Developmental Coach of the Year, to gauge his interest in heading up Cadence's coaching, testing and performance services. Walton joined Cadence as a partner in late 2003.

Replacing Heitmann as president is Snider. He was the president of the Philadelphia Flyers from 1983 to 1994, and from 1987 to 1994, Snider also oversaw the management of the Philadelphia-based sports, entertainment, retail and communications conglomerate now known as Comcast-Spectacor.

"This was a very difficult decision to make," Heitmann said. "I'm extremely proud of Cadence and what Cadence has accomplished in such a short while.

"The new velodrome will be a fully green, 100 percent sustainable site. It will also serve as a community center to promote healthy lifestyles, leadership values, and positive life skills for youth through the sport of cycling. Being situated in Manhattan, it will provide a world-class venue to showcase the sport of competitive cycling—future Olympians and civic leaders will be developed through its programs."

Heitmann said that the project is not-for-profit and is financed by a New York-based philanthropic fund.